Key Takeaways:
– British Cycling has expressed interest in bringing the 2027 Tour de France Grand Départ back to the UK.
– The Tour de France last took place in the UK in 2014.
– The potential bid is expected to boost cycle tourism and social value in the country.
– A final decision on the proposal and its financial sustainability rests with UK Sport, not British Cycling.
– The CEO of British Cycling is optimistic about the bid and already examining potential locations for the tour.
British Cycling, the UK’s national governing body for cycle sport, has voiced its support for bringing the Tour de France’s Grand Départ back to the country in 2027. The prestigious race’s opening stages last took place in Yorkshire and London in 2014, and prior to that, in 2007. The idea of the race beginning once again in the UK is apparently attracting strong backing from the association.
Inside the Bid
While the start locations for the next two editions of the race have been confirmed for the cities Lille and Barcelona, a British bid for 2027 looks increasingly plausible. British Cycling CEO, John Dutton, in a recent interview with London newspaper, City A.M, shared his enthusiasm for the prospect, while noting that the decision ultimately does not rest with British Cycling.
He said, “The Tour de France would have a hugely positive impact and would offer tremendous visibility. It goes beyond the race, it’s also about the potential cycle tourism and the heightened social value over time.”
Dutton emphasized that the decision to submit a bid for the Tour start isn’t within British Cycling’s jurisdiction, but he did highlight the importance of sustainable financial planning to execute grand events such as this.
The Financial Equation
The financial situation surrounding a potential British bid in 2027 is yet to be finalized. However, the withdrawal of Ireland’s bid for either 2026 or 2027, due to uncertainties surrounding budget and funding reductions, may offer a glimmer of hope for the UK.
Talking about the budgeting situation, Dutton expressed optimism, stating, “The cost is still being worked through but we will definitely be within our means and prepared to step up to support the value of getting more people on a bike.”
Envisioning the Locations
Dutton went on to share potential locations for the Grand Départ. “We would love to see the race come to London. We’re investigating large population centers such as London, Glasgow, Cardiff and beyond,” he said. Dutton added that a mapping exercise is currently in progress to identify new cities for the tour.
Nevertheless, the ultimate call rests with UK Sport, a national, government-funded organization. Dutton noted, “The Tour de France is a commercial organization and it is a project led by UK Sport.” However, he remains optimistic after having been a part of the 2014 Grand Départ, which saw millions of spectators lining up the routes and the tour spanning the entire UK geography.
Only time will reveal if the world’s most prestigious cycle race will once again start on British soil, but the idea has certainly captured the imaginations of cycling enthusiasts across the UK.